Star of Queens

Wednesday, August 27, 2008 2:21 PM EDT

Michael Butler
President
Richmond Hill East Business Persons Corporation

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Richmond Hill East Business Persons Corporation (RHEBPC) serves more than just the business community. The organization celebrated its 16th annual Night Out Against Crime on Tuesday, August 5 with fun, food and outdoor sports on Jamaica Avenue. "We try to have as much impact [on the community] as possible by trying to cater to the youth, to get them directed in the right areas," which, he added, is "a bit difficult" given the state of the economy.

"We would like to be more involved in the community,”he said. “I think we will be able to do that in the near future if the economy gets better." One thing he would like to do is provide more after school programs for high schoolers. While he commends the Boys and Girls Clubs on their work, he knows that the clubs are not for everyone and would like to offer variety.

JOB: Butler has presided over RHEBPC since its inception over 18 years ago. He also owns Butler Distributors, better known as the Beer Garden, in Richmond Hill, carrying beers from all over the world for parties, restaurants, bars and other institutions. His other business, Butler Incorporated, sells heating and ventilation equipment and air conditioning.

PERSONAL: Since he came to Richmond Hill from a small town in Ireland in 1965, he has been chief engineer at the North Shore Towers complex and worked at both the New York Times and the Museum of Modern Art. He opened his first shop for his air conditioning company on Jamaica Avenue, right where Night Out Against Crime takes place today. He now lives in Long Island with his wife and youngest son, but works and spends most of his time in Richmond Hill. "I don't have time for a hobby. Between both businesses, with what little time I have, I do things for the community."

BIGGEST CHALLENGE: Butler said his biggest challenge was facing the lack of "political concern for the small business guy.”

Butler urges local politicians to come to community events and "show an interest" in helping to educate youth.

INSPIRATION: "Trying to get a community center for the youth and for Richmond Hill. To educate the youth and get them off the streets, because they have absolutely nothing to do." He would like to help more local students get into college and realize their goals.

- Marianna Nash